Parvovirus

Question 1

Parvovirus: other names

Answer 1

= erythema infectiosum = slapped cheek disease = fifth disease

Question 2

How is parvovirus spread?

Answer 2

Resp droplets

Question 3

Normal age group of parvovirus

Answer 3

• School-aged children (4-10yo usually)

Question 4

Clinical features of parvovirus

Answer 4

• Prodrome: fever, H/A, coryzal Sx, N+D, aches
• Rash:
  
  • 2-5 days later - “defervesence of fever, just like roseola!”
  • Slapped cheek appearance initially
  • Later, diffuse macular erythema trunk and limbs - central clearing - lacy, reticulated. On extensor surfaces, spares palms and soles
  • Waxes and wanes; no desquamation
  • By the time the rash develops the viraemia has resolved and the child usually feels well

Question 5

Why is parvovirus dangerous?

Answer 5

• Other than pregnancy, complications rare
  • Can cause transient aplastic anaemia
• Anaemia -> heart failure -> Non immune fetal hydrops in pregnant women later stages, miscarriage early stages

Question 6

How do we manage pregnant women with regards to parvovirus?

Answer 6

• If pregnant, test for exposure with parvovirus B19 serology test
• Monitored closely with US in pregnant women who have been exposed but no serology (and serology every couple of weeks to check seroconversion)
• No antibodies available for parvovirus

Question 7

What containment must you do for a child infected with parvovirus?

Answer 7

• Once slapped cheek is seen, child is no longer infectious and can go to childcare/school as normal